Push vs self-propelled mowers
Who does the pushing, and what the drive changes.
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The difference
A push mower moves only when you push it. A self-propelled mower has a drive that turns its wheels while you walk behind and steer. The CPSC mower standard covers both kinds of walk-behind power mower.
Who will be mowing?
The CPSC suggests asking who will use the mower most of the time. It asks whether they will tire quickly if they have to push the mower all the while, or whether a self-propelled mower would be a better choice.
Running either one
The CPSC says to push a walk-behind mower forward and never pull it backward. Ohio State says to operate self-propelled mowers "only at safe travel speeds."
Slopes
The CPSC says to mow across a slope with a walk-behind mower, never up and down. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) gives the same advice, to avoid slipping under the mower.
Upkeep
A self-propelled mower has a wheel drive to look after. The CPSC says to check the manual for routine maintenance, including fluid in powered wheel drives.
Sources: eCFR, 16 CFR Part 1205, Safety Standard for Walk-Behind Power Lawn Mowers; CPSC, Power Lawn Mowers (Publication 5126, PDF); Ohio State University Extension, Power Lawn Mowers; American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org, Lawn Mower Safety: Information for Families.
FAQ
General information only. Read the operator's manual before you mow. Keep children and pets indoors or well away from the area you mow, and never let a child ride on a mower as a passenger. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that, in general, children should be at least 12 years old to operate a walk-behind power mower safely and at least 16 to operate a riding mower safely. Before you clear, adjust, or service the blade area, turn the mower off, wait for the blade to stop, and disconnect the spark plug wire; on a battery or corded electric mower, follow the manual to disconnect its power. Refuel outdoors, only with the engine off and cool. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and eye and hearing protection. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: mower types
Rotary, reel, riding, robotic.
